15TH JUNE 2023
I've been on a slight rose obsession this week, and for good reason
I've just returned from visiting three restorative clients' gardens in different shires, and I have to say, their roses stole the show. At the start of the season, these poor flowers were utterly attacked with sawfly and farmed aphids, which can be attributed to the ever-changing environment that comes with restoring a garden.
Restoring a garden is no easy feat, but these clients were dedicated to finding a natural balance and reintroducing wildlife to their outdoor spaces. While this can take several years to accomplish, it's clear that their efforts have paid off - these gardens are staring to become an oasis of greenery and beauty.
As a horticulturalist, it's always a delight to see a garden thrive.
And with these clients, I can say without a doubt that their roses are a testament to the hard work and dedication. So if you're struggling with rose pests, take heart - with a little patience and care, these flowers can become the stars of your garden.
As a gardener, few things are more frustrating than noticing a once-beautiful rose bush being slowly taken over by the leaf-rolling sawfly. This pesky insect causes tight rolling of rose leaves, and can quickly destroy the aesthetic of your beloved rose bushes. But fear not - there are steps you can take to prevent and control these infestations.
Rose Leaf Rolling Sawfly
First and foremost, it's important to understand the life cycle of the rose leaf-rolling sawfly. Female sawflies will insert their eggs into rose leaflets, and in the process, secrete chemicals that induce leaf rolling. Sometimes, they'll probe a leaflet but not lay any eggs - even this process can still result in leaf curling. The best way to prevent infestations is to inspect both leaf surfaces in mid spring, removing any infested leaves you come across.
For more severe infestations, a forceful spray of water can do wonders in removing sawfly eggs and larvae from your plants. Alternatively, using soap, horticultural oil and water, or neem oil can be effective in preventing future infestations.
Don't let the rose leaf-rolling sawfly take over your garden this spring and summer. With a little bit of prevention and some well-timed maintenance, your roses can continue to thrive in their full beauty.
Ant farming
Ants have been known to be incredibly diligent and efficient workers, whether they're foraging for food, building their nests, or even farming aphids on plants. It might seem a bit odd to imagine tiny insects raising and caring for another tiny insect, but the relationship between ants and aphids is actually quite fascinating.
First and foremost, ants farm aphids because they feed on their sugary excrement, also known as honeydew. It's a nutritious and sweet treat for the ants, and they'll do just about anything to get their little mouths on it. In fact, ants have been known to defend and protect their aphids fiercely, making sure that they can produce as much honeydew as possible.
But why do aphids produce honeydew in the first place?
Well, aphids are herbivorous insects that feed on plant sap. This sap is full of sugars and other nutrients, but it's also difficult for aphids to digest. As a result, they excrete the excess sugar in the form of honeydew, which serves as a valuable resource for other insects like ants.
So, what's in it for the plants? As it turns out, not much. In fact, aphids can be quite detrimental to plants, causing stunted growth and sometimes even death. However, some plants have evolved a symbiotic relationship with ants and aphids, using the honeydew produced by aphids as a lure to attract ants. These ants then defend the plant from other herbivorous insects, like caterpillars or beetles, and in return, the plant provides a home for the ants.
In conclusion, ants farm aphids on plants primarily for the sweet and nutritious honeydew they produce. The relationship between these insects might seem unusual, but it's a testament to the complex and fascinating web of connections that exists in the natural world.
As a horticultural enthusiast, it's important to appreciate the diversity of life around us, even if it involves tiny, industrious ants and their tiny, sweet aphids. Should I get rid of them? If so How to get rid of them without doing more damage. Ladybugs are always the answer, but I’ll leave that explanation for the Ebook.
Below are so short term natural fixes
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Neem oil
– A popular natural insecticide, neem oil, is effective against aphids and other pests. It works by interfering with the feeding and mating habits of aphids. To make the neem oil solution, mix one tablespoon of neem oil with one gallon of water. Spray the solution on the affected plants every 7 to 14 days.
Soap spray
– A homemade soap spray is an excellent remedy for ants farm aphids on plants. Mix two tablespoons of liquid soap, preferably castile soap, with one gallon of water. Spray the solution on the plant leaves, especially the underside, where the aphids tend to congregate.
Garlic spray
– Garlic is a natural pesticide that is toxic to aphids and other pests. Crush a handful of garlic cloves and soak them in water overnight. Strain the mixture and spray it on the plants, making sure to coat the leaves thoroughly.
Planting companion plants
– Certain plants repel aphids and can be planted as companion plants to protect the susceptible ones. These include chives, garlic, onion, marigold, and nasturtium.
We all love a beautiful and thriving garden, but sometimes unwanted pests can damage and ruin all our hard work. As tempting as it may be to reach for chemical insecticides, we must consider the negative impact they have on our environment.
Did you know that even natural products like neem oil, diatomaceous earth, and vinegar are considered insecticides because they kill pests? However, they are much safer and healthier options than their chemical counterparts. By using natural insecticides short-term until we can make necessary environmental changes, we are promoting a better ecosystem and a more diverse biodiversity.
Chemical insecticides can cause harm to our plants, animals, and even humans. They can also be dangerous to beneficial insects like bees, butterflies, and ladybugs. Natural insecticides are biodegradable, eco-friendly, and don't cause any harm to the environment or the people using them.
It's important to remember that nature has a way of taking care of itself if we allow it to. By using natural insecticides, we are enabling our gardens to recover from any pest damage while we work towards building a healthier environment. In addition to using natural insecticides, there are other steps we can take, such as composting, planting native plants, and reducing our carbon footprint.